THE RURAL WORLD

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXIII, Issue 7977, 7 December 1911, Page 2

THE RURAL WORLD

WELLINGTON WOOL SALES. SEASON* 1911-1912. Catalogue Date of Sale. Closes. Thursday, January 11th, 1912 Dec. Tuesday, February 13th, 1912 Feb. 5 Tuesday, llarch sth. 1912 Mar. 1 A. AND P. SHOW DATES. January 31st.—Bush Districts A. and PAssociation, at Woodville. January 31st. —Horowhcnua A, and P. Association, at l/cvin. , February 6th and 7th.— Feilding A. and P. .Association, at Feildlng. February 7tb.—Central A. and P. Assoc.ation, at Waipukurau. _ . , February 9th.—Paiuatua A. and P. Association, at Pahiatua., , February 14th.—Dannovirkc A. and F- Association, at Dannevirke. (Ram lair lath.) _ „ . , February 15th. —‘Waimorino A. P-. H. ana i. Association, at Raetihi. February 20th and 2lst.—Masterton A. and P. Association, at “Solway,” Masterton. February 23th— Eangitikoi A. and P. Association, at Taihape. PJGS AT SHOWS ENTRIES DIMINISHING. SOME SEASONS WHY. One of tho most noticeable weaknesses that has been apparent at this season s agricultural shows has been the paucity of entries that have been forthcoming in the pig divisions. The largest aggregate collection at any of tho seven shows was covered, by thirty-two animals, while only seven were shown at another. In years gone by it was not uncommon to see an entry of 100 pigs at Palmerston North and the accommodation was scarcely adequate for tho requirements. Nowadays, not more than a quarter of tho number are brought forward, and the pons have been allowed to fall into such a stato of disrepair as to call forth a vigorous protest from tho exhibitors. The same conditions seem to exist elsewhere. It might bo inferred from this shortage of show stock that less attention is being -given to breeding highclass stud animals, but inquiries made in different centres among dairymen show that the reverse is the case. In sympathy with tho rapid extension of the dairying industry pig raising as the most profitable side line has extended proportionately, and a great deal of monoy has been spent in improving tho various breeds that are in favour for fattening purposes. It is stated that the reasons why a greater number do not put in an appearance at shows are because of tho smallness of the prize money offered and the trouble in getting the animals to and from-tho show grounds. Owners have tho pigs, bni they won't he bothered in preparing and presenting them, consequently the entries are chiefly brought forward by those who make a regular business of rearing stud pigs and who use the show pens to advertise their stock. Another reason for absentees, which is perhaps tho true one, is that the ordinary dairyman cannot afford the time to take his pigs to shows. Four days are taken up one way and another, a special conveyance is required’ because the milk cart is in use, and the majority of farmers prefer to have the day off so that they can enjoy the eights of the show without hindrance. It seems scarcely fair to blame A. and F. societies altogether for the falling away of entries, and it is quite likely that tho reason why better accommodation is not provided is because of the poor support that is shown by owners. The Manawatu association has already intimated that improvements to the pens will be effected, and no doubt other committees will do likewise if there is any guarantee that better support will be forthcoming in future. Judging by the pigs that have been on exhibition this season Berkshires and Yorkshires are still tho most popular breeds, closely followed by largo blacks. Not a single specimen of the once popular Tamworth has been seen, the breed having gone right out of favour, tho reasons given being that Tamworths do not put on flesh quickly enough,/ and when fully grown are too large for market requirements. Their places have been taken by large blacks. In connection with this last-named breed it is rather interesting to note that it seems to he known by different names at different places. At, one show they are entered under tho heading of Devons, at another Black Devons, and again as large blacks. So far as can be ascertained the proper name is large black, and that all other designations are of colonial origin. Tho attention of framers of show schedules has been drawn to this mistake, but so far no successful effort has been made to secure uniformity. - There can be only one correct name and the sooner all other local terms are dropped the better. If owners do not know the proper name of tho breed of pigs they are showing tho A. and P. societies should give them a lead and insist upon the adherence to tho proper title.